This sophisticated summer kimono presents paper fan (sensu) motifs, rendered in alternating white, pale blue, and golden yellow against the rich charcoal ground, demonstrate a distinctly modern approach to pattern-making that echoes the streamlined aesthetic principles of Art Deco while maintaining the seasonal appropriateness central to Japanese textile tradition. The fans appear to float in dynamic diagonal arrangements that create visual movement across the garment's surface, suggesting the cooling breeze that these implements would provide during Japan's humid summers.

The technical execution reveals remarkable sophistication in the use of coated metallic threads, which create a lustrous, almost enamel-like surface quality that transforms traditional textile craft into something approaching contemporary industrial design aesthetics. The detailed views showcase the precision of this technique, where individual metallic threads are woven to create pixelated effects that build larger geometric forms—a method that anticipates digital imagery while remaining firmly rooted in hand-craft tradition. The grid-like structure visible in the close-up creates an almost mosaic-like surface that catches and reflects light with each subtle movement, transforming the wearer into a shimmering, kinetic artwork.

The color palette reflects the period's embrace of sophisticated tonal relationships, where the deep forest green ground provides dramatic contrast to the luminous fan motifs while maintaining the restrained elegance associated with summer garments. The vertical stripe elements that frame each fan create structural coherence reminiscent of both traditional Japanese architectural details and the bold linear elements favored by international Art Deco designers. This integration of geometric precision with organic fan shapes demonstrates the period's successful navigation between honoring cultural heritage and embracing contemporary visual languages, resulting in a garment that feels both timelessly Japanese and distinctly modern.

It measures 49 inches (124 cm) from sleeve-end to sleeve-end and stands at a height of 58 inches (147 cm).

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This artwork is featured on page 247 of Art Kimono: Aesthetic Revelations of Japan, 1905-1960. This book, published by Yorke Antique Textiles, can be previewed or purchased on our website here.

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